Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa on Monday said that decisions of cases could previously be predicted based on the bench composition, but he now strives to remove any element of malice from the cases.
The top judge emphasized that each judge has a tendency, and it is now uncertain where a case might be assigned.
The Supreme Court of Pakistan held a full court reference to mark the beginning of the new judicial year, chaired by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa. Justice Mansoor Ali Shah was absent due to being abroad, while Shariah Appellate Bench members Justice Qibla Ayaz and Justice Khalid Masood were present there.
Addressing the full court reference, Chief Justice Isa noted that such occasions provide an opportunity to review the institution’s performance. He mentioned that the Attorney General and bar representatives provided suggestions for improving performance. “In nine days, I will complete one year as Chief Justice. When I became Chief Justice, I called the first full court meeting in four years,” he said.
CJP Isa highlighted his initiative to start live broadcasting of Supreme Court proceedings. He cited the first live-streamed case on the Practice and Procedure Act, which was heard by the full court. Following this decision, the powers of the Chief Justice were delegated to a three-judge bench.
He further explained that he strives to eliminate any element of ill-intent from cases.
“Some people place more trust in the prosecution. One could predict the outcome of a case based on the bench in the past but now I don’t even know what the judges will deliver the judgment,” said the CJP.
The Chief Justice also addressed changes in the case listing process, noting that the practice of sending cause lists for approval to the Chief Justice has ceased. “Each judge has a certain tendency, so it was possible to estimate which cases would benefit them. This system has been abolished,” he said. He instructed that cause lists should now be published every two weeks to facilitate lawyers.
Chief Justice Isa emphasized that the list of cases has now started being published monthly. “The authority to form benches is no longer solely with the Chief Justice. I have directed the registrar to ensure that even two-week cause lists are published. It helps lawyers as they want their cases to be heard promptly,” he stated.
He also addressed the issue of long-term deputations at the Supreme Court, stating that such practices are illegal as deputations should only last three years. He noted that the departure of deputation staff has led to the promotion of 146 Supreme Court employees.
On Karachi’s judiciary, Chief Justice Isa urged that 36 federal courts in the city be consolidated into one location, a responsibility now with the federal government. He highlighted the reduction in the need for physical relocations due to the availability of video link hearings.
Chief Justice Isa underscored that Supreme Court employees receive higher salaries compared to other government positions. “I did not need a 3000 cc Mercedes, which was returned. I suggested the government sell it and buy buses for public welfare,” he said.
In his remarks, Chief Justice Isa emphasized that fundamental rights of all individuals are crucial, urging that critiques be based on facts rather than assumptions. He mentioned that transparency and accountability are essential for the judicial system’s integrity.
He also referred to significant cases such as the trial of General Pervez Musharraf and the demolition case of the Nasla Tower. Chief Justice Isa stressed that the Supreme Court had taken numerous steps to improve the system, including addressing cases efficiently and implementing reforms.
Attorney General for Pakistan Mansoor Usman Awan, in his speech, highlighted the importance of learning from the past and ensuring justice for all. He pointed out that delays in case decisions lead to frustration and highlighted the impact of prolonged detention on innocent individuals.